Alma Mater: reclining boy
- Original dimensions
- 189 x 215 cm
- Museum
- Munch Museum
- Year
- 1914
Scene depicted
In this canvas , the artist transposes an atmosphere of calm and introspection. The young boy is depicted lying down, surrounded by a landscape that seems both vibrant with life and imbued with melancholy. Munch translates here the fragility of youth and the weight of thoughts that intertwine around him, thus creating an echo with the universality of the human experience.
Historical context
Created in 1914, in the artist's hometown, Oslo, Norway, this painting is at the heart of the expressionist movement. At that time, Munch, already a recognized artist, explores the depths of the human soul through his paintings . The painting is currently on display at the Munch Museum, where it continues to fascinate art lovers from around the world.
Place in the artist's career
Alma Mater : boy lying down is part of Munch's mature period, exemplifying his unique style and ability to capture pure emotion. In parallel, his flagship work, The Scream , reveals the turbulence of feelings, while The Madonna shows a disturbing sensuality, offering an overview of the technical and emotional evolution of the artist.
Anecdote
“I was born to create,” said Munch, referring to the intense passion that drove him. One spring morning, seeing a young man lying down, lost in thought, the spark of inspiration for this masterpiece was awakened. This moment of purity and contemplative solitude is captured in the evocative power of Alma Mater : boy lying down .